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Paying attention to the colour of menstrual blood can sometimes provide insights into your reproductive health. While variations in colour are often normal and can be influenced by factors like the stage of your menstrual cycle, diet, and hormonal fluctuations, certain changes in colour may indicate underlying health issues that warrant medical attention.
What are the indications of menstrual blood colours?
Here are some common period blood colours and what they may indicate:
Brown menstrual blood
You will notice brown menstrual blood as your period ends, and usually not a cause for concern. However, if you consistently have brownish blood throughout your cycle, it could indicate issues like hormonal imbalances or irregular menstrual bleeding.
Pink menstrual blood
Light pink blood may occur at the beginning or end of your period and is often normal. However, if you notice persistent pinkish blood throughout your cycle, it could be a sign of low oestrogen levels or other hormonal issues.
Bright red menstrual blood
This is common at the beginning of your period when the flow is typically heavier. It indicates fresh blood. However, if your blood is consistently bright red throughout your cycle or if it is accompanied by heavy bleeding and severe cramping, it might be a sign of conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.
Dark red menstrual blood
Dark red menstrual blood is blood that took longer to exit your body. It can be accompanied by blood clots, which are usually considered normal unless they are unusually large, exceeding the size of quarters.
Orange menstrual blood
Blood that mixes with cervical fluid can look orange. If you consistently notice orange-coloured menstrual blood or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as pain, unusual odour, or changes in menstrual patterns, it is important to consult with a doctor for further evaluation.
Black menstrual blood
Black menstrual blood is rare but not unusual. This could blood that has been in the uterus for a longer period before being expelled from the body. If you consistently experience black menstrual blood throughout your cycle or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, unusual odour, or irregular periods, it is advisable to consult a doctor. These symptoms could potentially indicate underlying health issues that need attention and further evaluation.
Grey menstrual blood
Grey menstrual blood is not a typical or normal colour, and if you notice it, it may indicate a potential health concern that requires attention from a doctor. Possible reasons for grey-coloured menstrual blood include an infection, retained menstrual products or other health conditions.
When should you consult a doctor?
It is normal to notice a variety of shades of period blood when you are menstruating. However, it is best to consult a doctor if you have questions about the changes of colour or experience unusual changes in your menstrual cycle.
- Periods that last beyond seven days or require changing pads and tampons every one to two hours.
- Severe abdomen pain during menstruation that interferes with your daily lives.
- Passing blood clots bigger than the size of quarters.
- Experiencing spotting or bleeding apart from during your menstruation.
- Period cycles shorter than 24 days or longer than 38 days.
- Not experiencing a period in three months, yet you are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You continue to experience bleeding after reaching menopause, which typically occurs in your 40s or 50s.
- Other symptoms alongside menstrual changes, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or abdominal pain.
Read more: Menstrual Irregularities: Management and Treatment Options
Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals
If you notice unusual colour changes in your period blood, it is important to consult a doctor. These changes could be indicators of underlying health issues that require attention.
Get in touch with us to book an appointment with our team of gynaecologists today, or find out more about our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
